The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has been honoured with the prestigious Daily Times Heroes Award for his contributions to revenue generation, trade facilitation and national development.
Adeniyi received the award on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the THISDAY Dome in Abuja during the centenary celebration of the Daily Times newspaper.
The event brought together prominent figures from government, business, traditional institutions and other sectors to celebrate individuals and organisations whose contributions have impacted Nigeria’s development.
The award recognised Adeniyi’s leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service and the Service’s efforts to strengthen revenue mobilisation while improving the ease and efficiency of legitimate trade.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Adeniyi said the recognition would serve as an incentive for him and the Service to do more in advancing their mandate.
“It’s very good when you do something and you are recognised; this should be an inspiration to us to do much better,” Adeniyi said.
The Customs boss dedicated the award to the officers and men of the Service, commending their dedication and sacrifices in protecting the nation and facilitating legitimate commerce.
“I dedicate this award to the officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service for their dedication and sacrifices in safeguarding and serving the nation,” he said.
Adeniyi also acknowledged the role of compliant members of the business community and other stakeholders in supporting the Service’s efforts to improve its operations and standards.
He said the NCS under his leadership would remain focused on strengthening revenue generation, facilitating legitimate trade and accelerating the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.
According to him, improved compliance with customs regulations would further enhance the Service’s capacity to deliver on its statutory responsibilities while creating a more predictable environment for businesses engaged in legitimate international trade.
“Greater compliance will empower the Customs Service to deliver its mandate more efficiently and support the growth of legitimate trade,” Adeniyi said.
The Comptroller-General stressed that the award should not be viewed solely as a personal achievement but as recognition of the collective work of Customs officers and stakeholders contributing to the Service’s transformation.
“This recognition belongs to the entire Customs family and to all stakeholders who continue to support our efforts to build a more efficient and responsive Customs Service,” he added.
The Daily Times centenary celebration featured the recognition of notable Nigerians and institutions for their contributions to the country’s development, with Adeniyi’s honour highlighting the growing importance of effective customs administration to revenue mobilisation and economic growth.
